Strange Starting Issues
 

So my car has this little issue.

At random times, (not to frequently, its happened probably 5 times since I've owned the car) I've tried to start the car, cranks over at normal timing (second or two). Then the car struggles to hold revs. Then the motor stalls. So I try and start the car again, and then it just keeps on cranking and cranking and it doesn't catch. Takes probably 10-15 seconds with slight persuasion using the throttle.

Any ideas?

I'm thinking maybe the coil packs? As every once in a while I develop a flat spot in the rev range. About 4ish. And I've heard its a common issue with the grunters/rs's that the packs get crappy.

Doubtful it would be coils unless youve got spark problems coming onto boost also.

If your needing throttle to get it started then it might be the idle control valve is a little sticky.

Is this problem happening on cold starts only?

Yeah cold starts only.

Rice in the petrol tank?

I know it was you if it was basmati

Well, Id check out the IACV and inspect the coils. Look for any hairline cracks in the casing. It may explain your flat spot at 4K rpm but I think the cold start issue is a sticky IACV. Pull it out and clean it.

Doing a Bosch HEC-716 Coil conversion is a huge upgrade over stock for early GC8s and RSs. Its much cheaper than getting OEM replacements and very simple to wire in.

idle crontrol valve or crank angle sensor. is it an original rs motor? also for the flat spot change the fuel pump if it's std.

96 WRX motor with a Walbro pump.

Crank Angle Sensor is my bet...its on the way out....

Happened to my car once when was stock never happened again though!